How to Become a Licensed Amateur Radio Operator

Practice Exams

Taking The Test

When you’re ready to take the FCC License Exam to get your Amateur Radio license, GEARS can help. GEARS is one of only fourteen amateur radio clubs in the USA directly authorized by the FCC to administer the license exams. If you’re not sure you’re ready, try a free online practice test (links above).

Tests are given at 2:00 PM on the first Sunday of every even-numbered month. No appointment is required, and walk-ins are welcome.

GEARS Exam Dates

October 6th

December 1st

The exams are given at the Butte County Search & Rescue, 3898 Morrow Lane in Chico.

What to bring to the test session

The cost of the exam is $15.00. You can take more than one exam for the same cost.

Two forms of identification. One must be a photo ID, driver’s license, state ID card, school ID, or passport

A Number 2 pencil, and a black ink pen

You may bring a calculator, however memories must be cleared before the exam session starts

If you have taken the exam previously, bring your Certificate of Successful Completion (CSCE).

If you are upgrading to a higher class of license, bring a photocopy of your current license

After Passing the Test

Tests are checked for a passing score immediately after being completed, and candidates are informed right away whether they passed or not. If you do not pass, the volunteers will return your application to you, and no record is kept.

After you pass your exam, the Volunteer Exam Coordinator will upload your license application directly to the FCC over the internet. New licenses are usually processed by the FCC within 48 to 72 hours, and you will receive a call from a GEARS volunteer by Tuesday or Wednesday to give you your new call-sign. You will also be given information on how to check your FCC Registration Number (FRN), how to register for the FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS), and how to obtain an official printed copy of your license.

NCVEC FORM 605 can be used to apply for new license applications, upgrades, license renewals, address changes, and call sign changes. This form must be submitted to the GEARS VEC, do not send this form to the FCC.

Technician: July 1st 2018 is valid until June 30th 2022.

General: July 1st 2019 is valid until June 30th, 2023.

Extra: July 1st 2016 is valid until June 30, 2020.

Let’s work together

We are committed to serving our communities, and welcome new opportunities to do so. We are available to–and frequently–provide radio communication support for community activities such as: bike races, charity walks, and other local and regional public events.